Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)    
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas: 15th November    
Indian Ocean Region (IOR)    
Pinaka: Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL)    
Maha Kumbh Mela 2025    
Black Hole Triple System    

1. Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)
Background
•    Origins: The AFSPA is a continuation of a British-era law enacted to suppress protests during the Quit India Movement.
•    Initial Ordinances: Issued as four ordinances in 1947, replaced by an Act in 1948.
•    Introduction in Parliament: The current version was introduced in 1958 by then Home Minister G.B. Pant as the Armed Forces (Assam and Manipur) Special Powers Act, 1958.
•    Expansion: Over time, the Act was extended to states like Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland.
About AFSPA
•    Powers Granted: AFSPA provides extensive powers to the armed forces in "disturbed areas," including:

o    Use of force and shoot to kill if public order is perceived to be at risk.
o    Arrests, searches, and seizures without warrants.
o    Immunity from prosecution without Central Government approval.
•    Current Status:
o    Revoked in Tripura (2015) and
Meghalaya (2018).
o    Active in parts of Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh.

Controversies and Criticisms Human Rights Violations
•    The Act has been criticized for empowering even non-commissioned officers to use deadly force, which has led to allegations of:
o    Fake encounters.
o    Excessive use of force.
o    Human rights abuses in areas under prolonged AFSPA imposition, such as Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir.
Recommendations for Repeal
•    Jeevan Reddy Committee (2004):
o    Recommended repealing AFSPA and amending the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA) to incorporate necessary provisions for armed forces' operations.

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o    Suggested setting up grievance cells in districts with armed forces presence.

C)    1 and 2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

•    Second Administrative Reforms         

Commission (ARC): The 5th Report also recommended the repeal of AFSPA, calling it inconsistent with modern democratic values.
Supreme Court Views
•    Constitutionality Upheld: In Naga People's Movement of Human Rights v. Union of India (1998), the Supreme Court ruled:
o    The Central Government can declare disturbed areas, but consultation with the State Government is desirable.
o    Such declarations must be periodically reviewed every six months.
o    Armed forces must use minimal necessary force while exercising AFSPA powers.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), consider the following statements:
1.    AFSPA allows the armed forces to search premises and make arrests without warrants.
2.    The Jeevan Reddy Committee recommended the continuation of AFSPA with modifications.
3.    The Supreme Court has ruled that periodic reviews of disturbed area declarations under AFSPA are required.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    2 and 3 only

Mains Question
Question: Critically evaluate the necessity and implications of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). Discuss the challenges in balancing national security with human rights, and suggest measures to address the criticisms of the Act.

2. Janjatiya Gaurav Divas: 15th November
Why in News
The Union Cabinet has approved 15th November as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to honor the contributions of tribal freedom fighters and preserve their cultural legacy.
 

Key Points
About Janjatiya Gaurav Divas
•    Celebrated annually to recognize the tribal communities' efforts in preserving India's cultural heritage and promoting national pride, valour, and hospitality.
•    Acknowledges tribal uprisings across India against British colonial rule. Key tribes include Tamars, Santhals, Khasis, Bhils, Mizos, and Kols.
•    Marks the birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, revered as a God by many tribal communities.

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About Birsa Munda
•    Birth: Born on 15th November 1875, in the Munda tribe, in the Chotanagpur Plateau area.
•    Title: Known as Dharti Aaba (Father of Earth).
•    Legacy: Mobilized the tribal community against British policies and forced the introduction of laws protecting tribal land rights.
Birsait Sect
•    Founded to resist British colonial rule and Christian missionary conversion activities.
•    Gained widespread support among the Munda and Oraon communities, challenging conversion activities and preserving traditional culture.
Munda Rebellion (1899–1900) Causes of the Rebellion
1.    British land policies: Disrupted traditional tribal land systems.
2.    Exploitation by landlords and moneylenders: Tribal lands were taken over.
3.    Missionary interference: Criticized tribal culture and sought conversions.
The Ulgulan (Great Tumult)
•    Aimed to establish Munda Raj by driving out the British.
•    Birsa Munda used traditional symbols and language to inspire his followers, portraying dikus (outsiders) and Europeans as Ravana.
•    Actions included attacks on police stations, churches, and zamindar properties, and raising the white flag of Birsa Raj.
End of the Movement
•    Arrest: Birsa was captured by the British on 3rd March 1900 while camping in the Jamkopai forest (Chakradharpur, Jharkhand).

•    Death: Died of cholera in prison, causing the movement to fade.
Significance
•    Forced the British to enact laws like the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908, which protected tribal lands from being taken by dikus.
•    Showcased the tribal capacity to resist injustice and their contribution to India's fight against colonial rule.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, consider the following statements:
1.    It commemorates tribal contributions to India's freedom struggle and cultural heritage.
2.    It is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Dharti Aaba, Birsa Munda.
3.    The Munda Rebellion forced the enactment of the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3 Answer: D) 1, 2, and 3 Mains Question
Question: Discuss the significance of Birsa Munda and the Munda Rebellion in India’s tribal and freedom movements. How does Janjatiya Gaurav Divas highlight the cultural and historical contributions of tribal communities?

3. Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
About
The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) spans over 36 littoral and island countries, making it a vital maritime area due to its strategic location, rich natural resources, and significant trade routes.

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Key sea lanes, such as the Straits of Hormuz and Malacca, facilitate international trade. The region is home to diverse marine biodiversity, including endemic species and coral reefs, while facing challenges like piracy, illegal fishing, and climate change impacts such as rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events.
India plays a critical role in the IOR, alongside major players like China and the US, with regional organizations fostering cooperation to tackle shared challenges and promote sustainable development.
Importance of the Region Demographic Dividend
•    Hosts a significant portion of the world’s population, characterized by a relatively younger demographic profile.
Economic Significance
•    Privileged Location: Crucial trade chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz facilitate the majority of global goods and oil trade.
•    Growing Economies: Rapidly growing economies such as India, Malaysia, and Tanzania attract large investments.
•    Rich Natural Resources:
o    Contributes nearly 15% of the world's fishing output.
o    Abundant in minerals like iron, copper, zinc, manganese, gold, and silver.
o    Accounts for 40% of global oil exploration.
Strategic Importance
•    Chinese Influence:
o    Through the Belt and Road Initiative, China provides large loans to smaller nations (e.g., Sri Lanka, Maldives, Kenya), leading to its growing presence and influence in the region.
•    Counterbalancing China:

o    The US and other nations are enhancing infrastructure development in IOR countries to counter China's dominance.
o    India is expanding its cooperation, focusing on African nations and strengthening trade and investment ties.
•    Security Issues:
o    The region faces threats like piracy, illegal migration, and extremism (e.g., in Somalia, Bangladesh, and Indonesia).
•    India as First Responder:
o    India plays a pivotal role in disaster response and crisis management (e.g., Operation NEER in the Maldives).
Regional Groupings and Forums
•    BIMSTEC: Promotes trade links among Indian Ocean countries.
•    Other forums: ASEAN, SAARC, GCC, SADC, and others facilitate regional cooperation on common interests.
Significance for India Location
•    India lies at the center of the Indian Ocean, with a 7,500-km-long coastline, giving it a strategic advantage.
Security Concerns
•    Prone to terrorist attacks, smuggling, illegal fishing, and human trafficking.
Strategic Engagements
•    Connectivity projects:
o    Chabahar Port Development
(Iran).
o    Infrastructure development in
Mauritius and Seychelles.
•    Economic Dependence:
o    A major portion of India’s trade and oil imports relies on Indian Ocean routes.

Concerns

o    Fisheries and aquaculture industries are key exporters.
o    Mineral Exploration:
    India holds exclusive rights to explore the Central Indian Ocean and licenses for the Indian Ocean ridge, enabling deep-sea mining opportunities.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
Mains Question
Question: Examine the strategic and economic significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) for

India Playing It Safe
•    India’s strategic ambivalence is evident in its participation in QUAD and the exclusion of Australia from Malabar exercises to avoid antagonizing China.
Net Security Provider
•    India is not yet equipped to fully provide security to the IOR, limiting its role as a net security provider.
Chinese Challenge
•    The increasing presence of China’s army and navy in the IOR raises security concerns for India and smaller nations.
China-West Rivalry
•    China seeks long-term ties in the IOR to rival Western powers and dominate the region.
Low Naval Spending
•    India’s naval expenditure is significantly lower than other major powers, hindering its ability to assert maritime superiority.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), consider the following statements:
1.    The IOR contributes 40% of the world’s
fishing output.
2.    The region’s key chokepoints include the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca.
3.    BIMSTEC represents all the countries in the IOR and aims to promote regional trade and cooperation.

India. Discuss the challenges India faces in asserting its dominance in the region and suggest measures to overcome them.

4.    Pinaka: Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL)
Overview
Pinaka is a Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a laboratory under DRDO. It provides lethal, precise, and rapid fire capabilities to neutralize various area targets, such as enemy troops, vehicles, and infrastructure.

Key Features
•    Components:
o    Multi-tube launcher vehicle.
o    Replenishment-cum-loader vehicle.
o    Command post vehicle.
•    Rockets:
o    Two pods with six rockets each.
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o    Capable of neutralizing an area of 700 × 500 square meters within 48 seconds.
o    Supports various warheads such as anti-tank mines and blast-cum- pre-fragmented explosives.
•    Payload: 100 kg (220 lbs).
•    Mobility: Mounted on a Tatra truck, supported by hydraulic outriggers during firing.
•    Versions and Ranges:
o    Pinaka Mk-I: 48 km.
o    Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced: 60 km.
o    Pinaka Mk-II: 90 km.
About Pinaka Mk-3
•    Advanced Version: Developed as an upgrade to the original Pinaka system.
•    Range:
o    First variant: 120 km or more.
o    Subsequent variants: 300 km.
•    Speed: Operates at 5757.70 km/h.
•    Capabilities:
o    Targets distant enemies and aerial threats.
o    All-weather operability ensures functionality in adverse conditions.
Significance
Pinaka provides a highly mobile, responsive, and versatile firepower platform for the Indian Armed Forces, enabling them to engage targets across a broad range of combat scenarios.
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to the Pinaka Rocket Launcher system, consider the following statements:
1.    Pinaka is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
2.    The range of Pinaka Mk-I Enhanced is 90 kilometers.

3.    Pinaka-Mk3 is capable of attacking aerial targets and has an all-weather operability feature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 3 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 2 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: A) 1 and 3 only
Mains Question
Question: Discuss the evolution of the Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher system and its role in enhancing India’s artillery capabilities.
Highlight the technological advancements made in its latest variant, Pinaka Mk-3.

5. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
Why in News
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 will be held in Prayagraj from 13th January to 26th February 2025, drawing millions of pilgrims for spiritual purification, cultural celebration, and unity. About Kumbh Mela
•    It is the largest peaceful congregation of pilgrims on Earth, where participants bathe in sacred rivers.
•    Locations:
o    Haridwar: Ganges River.
o    Ujjain: Shipra River.
o    Nashik: Godavari River.
o    Prayagraj: Confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.
Types of Kumbh Mela
•    Held 4 times in 12 years.
•    Ardh-Kumbh Mela: Every 6th year at Haridwar and Prayagraj.
 

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•    Maha Kumbh Mela: Held once every 144 years at Prayagraj after 12 Purna Kumbh Melas.
•    Maagh Kumbh: Celebrated annually in
Prayagraj during January-February.
Historical Evolution
•    Ancient Origins: Rooted in the Puranas, associated with the legend of the sacred pitcher of Amrit.
•    Medieval Patronage: Promoted by rulers like Harshavardhana, Akbar, and the Vijayanagara dynasty.
•    Colonial Era: British chronicled the event’s scale and rituals, enhancing its global recognition.
•    Modern Significance: Recognized by UNESCO in 2017 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Significance of Kumbh Mela Spiritual Relevance
•    Bathing at the Triveni Sangam is believed to purify sins and lead to Moksha (spiritual liberation).
Cultural Showcase
•    Features devotional kirtans, bhajans, and traditional dances like Kathak and Kuchipudi, emphasizing themes of unity and divinity.
Astrological Timing
•    Determined by the alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter, making it auspicious for spiritual activities.
Rituals and Activities
•    Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): Procession of saints and Akharas performing ceremonial baths.
•    Peshwai Processions: Traditional processions with saints on elephants, horses, and chariots.
•    Spiritual Discourses: Vibrant sessions led by spiritual leaders, showcasing Indian music, dance, and crafts.

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Significance
•    Recognizes living cultural heritage such as oral traditions, performing arts, rituals, and craftsmanship.
Indian Intangible Heritage Recognized by UNESCO:
1.    Kutiyattam – Sanskrit Theatre (2008).
2.    Tradition of Vedic Chanting (2008).
3.    Ramlila – Traditional Performance of the Ramayana (2008).
4. Yoga (2016).
5.    Kumbh Mela (2017).
6.    Garba of Gujarat (2023).
Prelims Question
Question: With reference to Kumbh Mela, consider the following statements:
1.    The Maha Kumbh Mela is celebrated once every 12 years in Prayagraj.
2.    The Kumbh Mela at Nashik is held on the banks of the Godavari River.
3.    Kumbh Mela was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 and 2 only
B)    2 and 3 only
C)    1 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3
Answer: B) 2 and 3 only
Mains Question
Question: Examine the historical evolution and cultural significance of the Kumbh Mela in
promoting unity and preserving India’s intangible heritage. How does its inclusion in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage impact its global recognition?

6. Black Hole Triple System
Why in News?
A black hole triple system has been discovered

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8,000 light-years away, marking the first known instance of such a structure. This challenges existing models of black hole formation, which typically involve isolated black holes or binary systems.

What is a Black Hole Triple System?
•    Definition: A black hole triple system consists of:

o This "failed supernova" allows nearby stars to remain gravitationally attached, avoiding violent ejections.
•    Significance: Demonstrates complex

gravitational dynamics and expands our understanding of black hole formation and stellar systems.

o    A central black hole.         

o    Two orbiting stars bound by gravitational forces.
•    Formation:
o Arises through a direct collapse process where a massive star collapses inward without a supernova explosion.

Difference Between a Black Hole and a Black Hole Triple System
Feature    Black Hole    Black Hole Triple System
Components    A singular
black hole.    One central black
hole (e.g., V404

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Feature    Black Hole    Black Hole Triple System
        Cygni) with two stars.

Orbital Details    No orbiting celestial body required.    One star orbits every 6.5 days; the other every 70,000 years.

Location    

Found across the universe.    Located 8,000 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus.

Unique Features    Often isolated or in binary systems.    Features stars gravitationally linked in a rare configuration.

Behaviour    May consume nearby matter and emit X-rays.    Central black hole gradually consumes the nearer star.

Scientific Implications    Supports standard black hole models.    Challenges traditional theories and offers insights into stellar dynamics.

Discovery Context    Commonly studied via telescopes.    Discovered accidentally while analysing V404 Cygni.

Types of Black Holes
1.    Stellar Black Hole
o    Formed from the collapse of a massive star.
2.    Intermediate Black Hole
o    Masses between 100 and 100,000 times that of the Sun.
3.    Supermassive Black Hole

o    Masses ranging from millions to billions of times the Sun’s mass. Found at the centres of most galaxies, including the Milky Way.

Prelims Question
Question: With reference to black hole triple systems, consider the following statements:
1.    They consist of one black hole and at least two orbiting stars.
2.    They form through a process called direct collapse, also known as a failed supernova.
3.    V404 Cygni is the first black hole discovered in a triple configuration.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A)    1 only
B)    1 and 2 only
C)    2 and 3 only
D)    1, 2, and 3 Answer: D) 1, 2, and 3 Mains Question
Question: Discuss the significance of the discovery of the black hole triple system in advancing our understanding of black hole formation and gravitational dynamics. How does this challenge traditional theories?